Mardi Gras With Ma’ and Pa’

This year on Feb. 13, Mardi Gras will be celebrated across the globe, attracting thousands of tourists to cities such as New Orleans, Rio de Janeiro and Venice. Known by many names such as Carnival or Fat Tuesday, the day is mainly celebrated by those who are Roman Catholic as the day before the Lenten season starts.

Typically, it is thought of as a day filled with colorful beads, partying, flowing alcohol, and parades in New Orleans. However, many families with children are either unable to partake in the traditional events of Mardi Gras or wish to not expose their children to the partying atmosphere. As an alternative to the more risque aspects of Mardi Gras, for the past 10 years community leaders in New Orleans have organized Family Gras, this year occurring on Feb. 2 and 3.

According to MardiGrasNewOrleans.com, every year over 80,000 people celebrate this family-friendly Mardi Gras. As a dedicated space safe for kids, the festival offers many activities such as an art market, face painting, games, access to see the Mardi Gras parades and free outdoor concerts.

This year’s Mardi Gras parades include the Krewe of Excalibur, a medieval theme led by fully-suited knights, and the Krewe of Caesar, the largest organization making up of over 800 men and women dressing up as the royal court.

In the past, artists such as Taylor Swift, Fifth Harmony, Jesse McCartney and Billy Ray Cyrus have performed at Family Gras. This year, Cyndi Lauper, Michael McDonald, John Oates and others are performing.

If you are looking for something to do for Mardi Gras, without flying to Louisiana, visit Fillmore and O’Farrell Streets in San Francisco on Feb. 13. There will be a free blues concert, face painting, performers, a New Orleans-styled parade, and more!